Paul Davoud’s successes made
him the first Canadian to command 418 Squadron (City of
Edmonton) in starting in June 1943.

The squadron flew de
Havilland Mosquitoes and had a reputation for being very
effective in shooting down the V-1 "buzz-bombs" that were
launched at Britain by the enemy. During this time, Davoud
earned the Distinguished Service Order (DSO), and the
Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC).

When Davoud left 418 Squadron in January 1944, the squadron
was developing the best record for a fighter squadron for both
night and day operations in the Royal Canadian Air Force.